Jewelry designs from to the life boats are the sole effort of Tacoma’s Lincoln District resident Laura Towse who began creating her own designs in 1974 then went public with them in 2004.



“I have been interested in art and craft since I glued my first piece of macaroni in kindergarten,” says Towse.



She finds inspiration in near and dear places and people, including the paintings of Tacoma artists Teddy Haggerty and Julie Fillo, and those far away.

“I love color and history and unexpected combinations. A recent trip to Alaska and the Sawyer Glacier is inspiring a group of cool icy jewelry pieces,” she explains.



Towse scours traveling gem shows, eBay, thrift and vintage stores, the Internet, local bead and fabric shops, and found objects from collections and recycled materials to create earrings, necklaces, bracelets, cell phone charms and glass collage pendants. A large endeavor considering she doesn't drive. She does own more than 200 pairs of shoes so maybe her research involves walking.



There's one more source.



“My husband’s a rabid recycler and provides me with lots of good materials for my creating,” says Towse.



She incorporates everything from sterling silver, 14k gold plated and pewter elements to copper and recycled wire in her designs.



Jewelry isn't the only jewel of to the life boats. Towse creates wonderful shrine boxes from found objects, beads, metals and interesting papers.



This year she has plans for another line.



“I’m working on some mosaics and hanging beaded pendant lights,” Towse explains.



Where can you find to the life boats treasures? Towse will be sharing the Old Milwaukee Café booth every Tuesday at the 6th Avenue Farmers Market beginning in June. She's also been known to knot pearls while sitting at Tempest in the late afternoon. Drop by and introduce yourself. She’s available for home trunk shows, too.



Last year she began collaborating with Pat Kerth (Old Milwaukee Café) on a new endeavor, Studio 2 Design.



[to the life boats, 206.718.2717, tothelifeboats.blogspot.com]